Messing about in boats: dipping into The Wind in the Willows

In this episode I talk about Kenneth Grahame’s Wind in the Willows and read a favourite passage

[@dalepiper6693]

Snap Malcom...my most favourite book. I have the same edition...on the title page in my father’s hand there is the inscription “To Dale, Christmas 1959 from Dad” and I’ve treasured it ever since. Bravo for reading that passage to us...thank you. (I do hope you get to mess around in boats again really soon!)

[@oldhollywoodbriar]

Dale Piper thanks so much dale for the recommendation! This channel is amazing.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

thanks - yes roll on the day!

[@BadgerOfTheSea]

The Wind in the Willows had an extremely important influence on my life. It was the first novel as a child I read independently and as a child with severe dyslexia to a point that my teachers had simply written me off this was a very big deal. It also encouraged me from such a tender age to think about my environmental impact and how we live in a symbiotic relationship with nature so in order to take delight in it we must ensure that what we put back is of equally high standard. Another curious thing is that even though I recently turned Thirty I still have not got around to learning to drive and I put that down to the way Badger chastised Toad for his reckless driving. I have however, achieved many things on boats.

[@charleskellum1383]

After this wonderful visit , I started reading the book to my wife at night ....it is wonderful......I then I got to the Chapter....Piper at the Gates of Dawn......title of Pink Floyd’ s first album that I own and ....never knew !!! Thank you !!

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

yes, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn is a beautiful and essential chapter I don't know how they could possibly omit it!

[@catinthehat906]

The best literary description of the state of awe composed in English- in my view.

[@goldilocks913]

One wonderful hot summer l read it and after I finished the chapter of the piper at the gates of dawn I drove through the cotswolds listening to The Troggs and coming the other way was two horse drawn wagons with a huge queue behind them, peopled by some New Age travellers. I thought I had died and gone to Elysian Fields 😂

[@danthemixingman7573]

I love the artwork in The Wind And The Willows. I remember being read this book as a child and want to read it again now as an adult. Your passion for reading is extremely comforting and inspiring.

[@reaganvernon7925]

I went to a local book shop today and picked up a 1954 copy with the E. H. Shepard illustrations; only five American dollars! I really enjoyed this video.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

wow! that was a real find!

[@drjohnn.sutherland3455]

Thanks, Malcolm. Got me out of a dark hole. Bless you.

[@onehundredpipesofsolitude8121]

One of my favorites as well, an enchanting scene. My favorite comes in Dulce Domum. The juxtaposition of Mole’s depressing embarrassment at the state of “Mole End” contrasted with Rat’s unbridled optimism & ability to rustle of a fire and feast fit for a king. Of course, all with the help of a pack of Christmas-Caroling mice! Thank you for sharing with us.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

yes that's another great scene!

[@stephenandcas]

Your mention of Ranworth reminded me of how much of my early childhood was spent messing about on the Norfolk marshes. Enchanted by Water Boatmen, Sticklebacks and Dragonflies, especially the dragonflies, carrying somewhere within them a billion years or so of memories as they darted back and forth in the sunlight.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

oh I so long to be there!

[@3riverspiper1792]

Thank you Malcolm, this book of Kenneth Grahame from which you read passages today, and those of Arthur Michell Ransome {A pipe smoker and fly-fisherman} through his Swallows and Amazons, and his Coot Club series formed a large part of my much younger days in terms of Adventures, and indeed I can say unashamedly they are still giving me great pleasure today. Wonderful motivational pieces if not much needed escapism . Keep Well.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

thanks - and I will definitely be reading some Ransome sometime a great favourite with me - the little essays on fly-fishing are exquisite!

[@cliffhiggins730]

Sir Steve, as soon as The Reverend began this talk, I KNEW you would love it😁!!! I’ve been “messing about in boats” since I was three years old! What a wonderful gentleman is Sir Malcom! I cannot thank Sir John Pounder enough for recommending this fascinating fellow to us! Wishing you tight lines! Cliff

[@lordhogarth]

My wife and I can’t wait to get back to Bath and kayaking on the canal and river. In the meantime, while we’re locked down in Colorado, your videos are a real pleasure to watch.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Thanks!

[@-NewtonPiper-]

As you have been inspired over your fascinating life by the great names you passionately talk about, so you inspire us in the same way. Dare I say even may inspire new poets and story tellers of the future. You are a part of the great tapestry that makes up the best within us all.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

you are most kind!

[@teamhonn]

I have now read this book for the 1st time as a 58 year old. what a wonderful pleasant read. I love the way you introduce us to new things to read. BTW, welcome from Texas.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@arthurferns4890]

I’m 58 now … never read it .. but will do now !

[@jamesmoore3002]

One of our family favorites! Excellent read. Keep bringing joy to the world.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Thank you! Will do!

[@bookishshenanigans4769]

This was wonderful, The Wind in the Willows is one of my favourite books (not just from childhood but in general). You read this with such spirit.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Thanks!

[@cliffhiggins730]

Dr. Guite, I so much enjoyed this visit. I’ve been “messing about in boats” since I was three years old, and I have to agree, completely, it is such a joy. I do hope you are able to launch that boat of your VERY SOON! Please, for the love of humanity, do continue to allow us into your study for a spell as often as you can! God bless, Cliff

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

You are very welcome

[@mth469]

I liked the theme song of Wind in the Willows. Also, people watching the show always find they can connect to one of the 4 characters because they have a bit of that character in them.

[@LeftHandedWords]

I think the river passage is one of the most beautiful pieces of writing in the English language.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

I agree

[@dwightmaciv4789]

U did this one ❤❤❤

[@1chrislockwood]

Wonderful! What a great choice for some quick escapism. I think we all want to see a photo of your new boat, too.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Very soon!

[@YorkshirePiper]

Absolutely fantastic. So much can be taken from these old story's, the way that these books were written for children in those times display a certain form and function that books today do not have . They capture perfectly the dance between words and the soul and most interestingly how we can relate to them in a way that we fully cannot comprehend, almost magic, definitely...magic. thankyou

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

thanks, yes you are right about the magical quality of those old books!

[@r.pittman3]

it only just now occurred to me St. Peter would have loved that passage too! ;-)

[@maxcecco7910]

doggo is so sweet

[@oldfatslo]

Reminded me of this description of RLS on canoeing. "There is nothing captious about a man who has attained to this, the one possible apotheosis in life, the Apotheosis of Stupidity; and he begins to feel dignified and longevous like a tree." RLS An Inland Voyage

[@oldfatslo]

More of the context: “Canoeing was easy work. To dip the paddle at the proper inclination, now right, now left; to keep the head down stream; to empty the little pool that gathered in the lap of the apron; to screw up the eyes against the glittering sparkles of sun upon the water; or now and again to pass below the whistling tow-rope of the Deo Gratias of Condé, or the Four Sons of Aymon-there was not much art in that; certain silly muscles managed it between sleep and waking; and meanwhile the brain had a whole holiday, and went to sleep. We took in, at a glance, the larger features of the scene; and beheld, with half an eye, bloused fishers and dabbling washerwomen on the bank. Now and again we might be half-wakened by some church spire, by a leaping fish, or by a trail of river grass that clung about the paddle and had to be plucked off and thrown away. But these luminous intervals were only partially luminous. A little more of us was called into action, but never the whole. The central bureau of nerves, what in some moods we call Ourselves, enjoyed its holiday without disturbance, like a Government Office. The great wheels of intelligence turned idly in the head, like fly-wheels, grinding no grist. I have gone on for half an hour at a time, counting my strokes and forgetting the hundreds. I flatter myself the beasts that perish could not underbid that, as a low form of consciousness. And what a pleasure it was! What a hearty, tolerant temper did it bring about! There is nothing captious about a man who has attained to this, the one possible apotheosis in life, the Apotheosis of Stupidity; and he begins to feel dignified and longævous like a tree.”

[@TheBroccoliKing]

Wind in the Willows is a favourite - our Mum used to read this to us as little kids! Loved listening to your video! Have a good weekend Malcolm! Best wishes, Mary and Harry Coates 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸 (PS Love your dog! 🐕)

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

thanks! Yes, I think George rather likes being part of this!

[@TheBroccoliKing]

Thank you Malcolm - our dogs love being with us as well. Have a good weekend! 🙏

[@JoseCavendish]

I'm very happy I discovered your channel. I've enjoyed your content. and The Wind in the Willows is one of my favorite books. And the fact you uploaded it on my birthday date makes this more special haha. Greetings! Thank you for your work.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Welcome aboard!

[@worldofameiso5491]

This book has the very best Chapter title ever: 'The piper at the gates of dawn.'

[@Cotyblack]

Man, these are so fun! Thank you.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

My pleasure!

[@vernonvickruck4635]

Well said and read. Long may your jib draw.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

thanks, I cant wait for the wind in my sails!

[@Phelox61]

Fairly transporting, this. Thank you!

[@jennifermartin9867]

Beloved teacher Peter Ellacott introduced our class to this and CS Lewis. These spells in the library are so freeing companionable

[@sandrofazzolari8833]

In my opinion the boat is a metaphor for a good parent. In your case a loving father? Thanks for your videos. Kind regards, SF.

[@karencarr6461]

Thank you! This brought back such wonderful memories of one of the most delightful books that we read as my four sons were growing up. These moments in your library and garden truly bring refreshment and beauty into my life here in Minnesota. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with all of us!

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@krewdaniel1161]

I know Im asking randomly but does anybody know a trick to get back into an Instagram account?? I was dumb forgot my account password. I would love any assistance you can offer me!

[@ramonmajor334]

@Krew Daniel instablaster :)

[@krewdaniel1161]

@Ramon Major Thanks for your reply. I found the site thru google and I'm in the hacking process atm. I see it takes quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.

[@krewdaniel1161]

@Ramon Major it worked and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy! Thanks so much you saved my account!

[@TheMagicianPiper]

I’m really enjoying your channel

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@EveyQV]

I don't know if I have ever had the sense of floating without any particular need to get on with it or get somewhere, save maybe in the rare half day where I'm left on my own and can take the tasks as they come to me, waltzing through them like a dance partner; or possibly when reading books. :)

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

getting into a boat does that for me every time!

[@Skypilot617]

I have the Folio copy of Wind in the Willows with ilustrations by James Lynch. I was recently re-introduced to the book by listening to it beautifully read by Michael Bertenshaw on the BBC Sounds app here: www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p07snwxz

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

excellent.

[@skypilot1846]

@@MalcolmGuitespell One of the things I noticed was the reapeated use of the lovely word 'presently'. It keep popping up in Buchan's 39 Steps as well.

[@jackhooper3927]

I read that book when I was nine years old. I was transfixed. Ratty and me have been shipmates ever since. I row, I sail, I drift and take it all in. But it is not Pan I met - it was the Old Guy Himself.

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Excellent. Me too!

[@derekminton6928]

Dr. Guite, would you be able to share other stories you used to read your children when they were small? Would you be able to share some ideas of poetry that’s conducive to small children? The main bit I’m aware of is Louis Robert Stevenson. Any other suggestions? Do you have P. O. box to which I might send you a handwritten letter?

[@MalcolmGuitespell]

Thanks Derek, I'll try to do some more posts on children's books. I'm afraid that I have so many letters to reply to that I cant manage any more but thanks for asking

[@derekminton6928]

@@MalcolmGuitespell Thank for replying. I appreciate it. We’ll have plenty of time for a poem and a pipe and a chat in the new heaven and new earth. I’m looking forward to it.